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2009 Chevrolet HHR Performance Review

February 22, 2009

PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

[the SS] packs an impressive 130 horsepower per liter
Autoblog

The SS's 14.8:1 steering ratio is 20 percent quicker than that of a standard HHR
Motor Trend

highway passing and hill climbs can feel labored
ConsumerGuide

suspension and steering just can't keep up with overly aggressive driving
Edmunds

A wide range of reviews surveyed by TheCarConnection.com indicates that while performance from the sporty 2009 Chevrolet HHR SS might be quite satisfying, performance from standard versions of the HHR is only adequate—albeit economical.

The standard engine in the 2009 Chevrolet HHR receives variable valve timing in the 2.2-liter inline-four Ecotec engine, which bumps horsepower from 149 horsepower to 155 and improves fuel efficiency. The 2.4-liter version nets 172 horses and is available on higher trim levels. Both of these powerplants are E85 Flex Fuel compatible. Neither inspires confidence in passing or merging—or in stoplight drag races—according to the reviews read by or in the experience of TheCarConnection.com editors.

Although most reviewers have some gripes about the available power from either base four-cylinder engines, Edmunds calls the 2.4-liter engine “a worthwhile upgrade.” ConsumerGuide reports that Chevrolet HHR "2.4-liter models have decent around-town go, but highway passing and hill climbs can feel labored," adding that the "automatic transmission is responsive [and] quick to downshift." But the message is clear through reviews that the 2.4-liter versions still don't feel perky or particularly smooth. “The Chevy's powertrain was unable to inspire much confidence, especially during merging and passing,” says the Detroit News, and Edmunds refers to the “lack of low-end pull and refinement from the 2.4-liter engine.”

With either engine choice, the HHR is front-wheel drive and comes with a five-speed manual gearbox or an optional four-speed automatic. Edmunds underscores that the HHR lacks an all-wheel-drive option “for enhanced foul-weather capability.”

The aforementioned 2009 Chevrolet HHR SS and the new Panel SS, however, are hits with the automotive press. This version offers “spirited performance,” Edmunds says; its turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec four-cylinder makes 260 horsepower channeled to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Autoblog reports the SS has the same engine as “the Solstice GXP and Saturn Sky Redline," and that the "HHR packs an impressive 130 horsepower per liter," and Cars.com declares that the turbo engine “pulls the HHR SS with satisfying strength."

Autoblog notes that "the automatic loses out on power by a few dozen horses and offers a more sedate driving experience"—a pretty significant penalty for those who don’t want to do the shifting themselves—and recommends that you "stick to the manual so you don't miss out on the awesomeness that is the launch control and no-lift shifting." Apparently, the SS gets a slicker manual gearbox, which is another incentive; ConsumerGuide reports it "has smooth shift and clutch action, unlike other manual HHRs, which suffer from long throws and crude movement."

The Chevrolet HHR 2009 is frugal with fuel. Autoblog recommends that one should "hold off the throttle pedal a bit and you'll be able to get near 30 miles per gallon on the highway, according to the EPA." EPA estimates range up to a rated 30 mpg highway, with the 2.2-liter engine and manual transmission. ConsumerGuide notes that "Chevrolet recommends premium-grade gas for SS and 2.4-liter models, regular otherwise."

If you expect to hustle the HHR along twisty roads on a regular basis, you probably should cross off all trims except the SS. The HHR has “rubbery steering, bobby suspension, and imprecise control,” says Car and Driver, though it notes a “smooth ride.” ConsumerGuide considers the Chevrolet HHR "composed overall, though the ride can get bouncy over sharp bumps," and Edmunds advises that "it's best to maintain an easygoing pace, as the suspension and steering just can't keep up with overly aggressive driving... the electric-assisted steering is slow to respond and numb in feel, [and] the HHR exhibits a loss of straight-line stability during maximum braking."

Several sources have positive things to say regarding the way the SS handles. The SS version is a different beast entirely; it has “stronger braking and buttoned-down handling,” Edmunds says. Autoblog takes the HHR out on the track and raves, “We flung the little SS around with no mercy and were quite impressed by how rewarding driving the tall wagon proved to be.”

Conclusion

The SS versions have a much stronger, go-fast character to satisfy enthusiasts, but if you don’t need pulse-raising performance, the standard versions of the 2009 Chevrolet HHR are just fine.

PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:[the SS] packs an impressive 130 horsepower per literAutoblogThe SS's 14.8:1 steering ratio is 20 percent quicker than that of a standard HHRMotor Trendhighway passing and hill climbs can feel laboredConsumerGuidesuspension and steering just can't keep up with overly aggressive drivingEdmunds A wide range of reviews surveyed by TheCarConnection.com indicates that while performance from the sporty 2009 Chevrolet HHR SS might be quite satisfying, performance from standard versions of the HHR is only adequate—albeit economical. The standard engine in the 2009 Chevrolet HHR receives variable valve timing in the 2.2-liter inline-four Ecotec engine, which bumps horsepower from 149 horsepower to 155 and improves fuel efficiency. The 2.4-liter version nets 172 horses and is available on higher trim levels. Both of these powerplants are E85 Flex Fuel compatible. Neither inspires confidence in passing or merging—or in stoplight drag races—according to the reviews read by or in the experience of TheCarConnection.com editors. Although most reviewers have some gripes about the available power from either base four-cylinder engines, Edmunds calls the 2.4-liter engine “a worthwhile upgrade.” ConsumerGuide reports that Chevrolet HHR "2.4-liter models have decent around-town go, but highway passing and hill climbs can feel labored," adding that the "automatic transmission is responsive [and] quick to downshift." But the message is clear through reviews that the 2.4-liter versions still don't feel perky or particularly smooth. “The Chevy's powertrain was unable to inspire much confidence, especially during merging and passing,” says the Detroit News, and Edmunds refers to the “lack of low-end pull and refinement from the 2.4-liter engine.” With either engine choice, the HHR is front-wheel drive and comes with a five-speed manual gearbox or an optional four-speed automatic. Edmunds underscores that the HHR lacks an all-wheel-drive option “for enhanced foul-weather capability.” The aforementioned 2009 Chevrolet HHR SS and the new Panel SS, however, are hits with the automotive press. This version offers “spirited performance,” Edmunds says; its turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec four-cylinder makes 260 horsepower channeled to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Autoblog reports the SS has the same engine as “the Solstice GXP and Saturn Sky Redline," and that the "HHR packs an impressive 130 horsepower per liter," and Cars.com declares that the turbo engine “pulls the HHR SS with satisfying strength." Autoblog notes that "the automatic loses out on power by a few dozen horses and offers a more sedate driving experience"—a pretty significant penalty for those who don’t want to do the shifting themselves—and recommends that you "stick to the manual so you don't miss out on the awesomeness that is the launch control and no-lift shifting." Apparently, the SS gets a slicker manual gearbox, which is another incentive; ConsumerGuide reports it "has smooth shift and clutch action, unlike other manual HHRs, which suffer from long throws and crude movement." The Chevrolet HHR 2009 is frugal with fuel. Autoblog recommends that one should "hold off the throttle pedal a bit and you'll be able to get near 30 miles per gallon on the highway, according to the EPA." EPA estimates range up to a rated 30 mpg highway, with the 2.2-liter engine and manual transmission. ConsumerGuide notes that "Chevrolet recommends premium-grade gas for SS and 2.4-liter models, regular otherwise." If you expect to hustle the HHR along twisty roads on a regular basis, you probably should cross off all trims except the SS. The HHR has “rubbery steering, bobby suspension, and imprecise control,” says Car and Driver, though it notes a “smooth ride.” ConsumerGuide considers the Chevrolet HHR "composed overall, though the ride can get bouncy over sharp bumps," and Edmunds advises that "it's best to maintain an easygoing pace, as the suspension and steering just can't keep up with overly aggressive driving... the electric-assisted steering is slow to respond and numb in feel, [and] the HHR exhibits a loss of straight-line stability during maximum braking." Several sources have positive things to say regarding the way the SS handles. The SS version is a different beast entirely; it has “stronger braking and buttoned-down handling,” Edmunds says. Autoblog takes the HHR out on the track and raves, “We flung the little SS around with no mercy and were quite impressed by how rewarding driving the tall wagon proved to be.” ConclusionThe SS versions have a much stronger, go-fast character to satisfy enthusiasts, but if you don’t need pulse-raising performance, the standard versions of the 2009 Chevrolet HHR are just fine.  2009 CHEVROLET HHR STYLING | [8 out of 10] Autoblog: “instantly recognizable” Edmunds: "Attractive and functional... handsome bright-ringed gauges" Kelley Blue Book: "retro style backed with substance" The 2009 Chevrolet HHR pairs fashionably retro styling with a shape that helps ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

Because of its very affordable price, the HHR competes with a wide range of vehicles—including some small cars. But its most direct competitors are tall-roofed utility cars, such as the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Scion xB. The PT Cruiser is also a versatile people/cargo hauler and has more useful passenger space than the HHR, but the Cruiser in any trim can’t match the HHR’s performance with the SS edition. The Jeep Compass, which is heavily based on the Dodge Caliber, is a tall-roof hatchback car—though a little rounder than the HHR. The Compass isn’t nearly as cargo-friendly as the HHR; however, the Compass offers all-wheel drive and the HHR does not. The Scion xB is also a direct rival to the HHR; like the rest of the Scion line, it targets a more youthful, urban buyer. Like the HHR, the XB isn’t as roomy inside for passengers as one might expect. Later this model year, the 2010 Kia Soul will go on sale; with more of an emphasis on fuel economy and maneuverability, the Soul looks poised to compete for city dwellers.

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See the Chevrolet HHR in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006

Comments (10 total)

  1. By Mike #1, Posted: 1/28/2009

    Klown Racing

    I was looking into getting a 09' HHR Panel for my new company. I test drove an older HHR and just didn't like how it was. It almost seemed like they built it cheaply and reminded me of being in an older caviler. Would anyone recomed that I go test drive the 09' or not?

  2. By John Egan #2, Posted: 7/22/2009

    I have a '07 HHR LT with the 2.2L 5speed. This car is plenty peppy for me and absolutely hugs tight curves with the 55 series tires. I'd love to have the zip of the turbo but alas I drive this car 25,000 miles a year commuting (city and highway) and the 33 mpg is worth the hp trade-off. I can manage 36mpg on the highway if I stay under 60 (state roads). 520 miles per tank routinely. For the mpg and cargo capacity, you can't find anything close in this price range - and Chevy is dealing on everything. Highly recommended for fun commutes.

  3. fb_1072853504 avatar by Donna Marie #3, Posted: 9/11/2009

    I looked at lots of cars before I bought my HHR, including the Dodge caliber, the Jeep patriot, the XB and the Nissan cube. I needed lots of cargo room for my computer shop, I install long range WiFi links to provide broadband Internet for my customers. This requires that I carry a lot of tools, hardware , wifi Radios , hi gain antennas and a heavy Gorilla ladder, this stuff runs about 500 to 600 Lbs. After looking at and driving every thing except the Cube (it was just to small) I found the HHR more pleasing to ride in, more fun to drive and just a down right better car. Of course I did not get to drive the cars with a load of cargo I would have liked to but the only real competitor for the HHR to me and my needs was the Jeep Patriot. I was almost convinced to buy the Jeep the thing that made the difference was that the Dodge/Jeep dealer wanted to play the old let me go talk to my manger bs and would not come clean on a real price, after 4 days of I can not get the file to attach to your email address and lots of other reasons why they could not send me a price I called the Big Lot Chevy dealer in Springfield Mo. I told them the same thing I told the Jeep dealer (Landers in Bentonville) "I have a clunker to trade in and I want to know what you can sell me a Base Line HHR with a manual trans for?" Big Lot called me back with prices for 3 different HHRs in less than a half hour. I think that the way the dealer treats the customer is a factor in how good a car is and the 3 different Chevy Dealers I visited with all had a "better feel" than any of the other dealers. Now as far as how the HHR is doing 2 months down the road, I am averaging 24.8 MPG hauling my tools and stuff on the small country mountain roads of the Ozarks. I have 2300 miles on the HHR now and I still love it, it gets the job done, rides good, has good power (I do wish I had bought the Automatic because GM will not let you tow anything on the HHR manual. I do not know why they have this restrict and so far I am not sure anyone at Chevy other than the engineer who wrote it knows. That brings me to a detractor in contacting "Customer Service" via the web I did not get the answers I was looking for, when they called me to talk about my questions, I did not speak with anyone who spoke English as a first language. Note the dealer got me the answers to my questions right a way but Chevy needs to staff the customer service office with employees who are knowledgeable about life, cars and how Americans use them. Oh yea and why not hire some of the guys who got laid off and staff a "First Class" customer service office. They have a great car in the HHR and the dealer (Big Lot in Springfield Mo.) was professional, no pressure, no "up sell" tricks at the end I felt good about how I was treated. As a 5'11' hillbilly transsexual with a 44c chest, I do not always get treated well. I felt as if I was valued as a customer this means something to me. I can recommend the HHR with no reservations, it is a great car. I plan on driving it for the next 10 years or so.

  4. By ahodie69 #4, Posted: 9/23/2009

    I don't see what's wrong with the placement of the window controls. They're on the driver's side door like 99% of the cars made today. Previous versions had them located at the bottom of the center stack. Did the reviewer actually review the HHR or did they rehash someone elses review? If they'd actually driven a 2009 model, I doubt that "power window switch placement" would have been in the dislike column.

  5. By  HHR Panel #5, Posted: 10/27/2009

    I bought a 2009 hhr in August of 09. Its the end of october and I have put 24,000 kilometers on this already and still love it. I bought it for my business (small parcel delivery) and its the perfect size and gets great mileage. no complaints thus far!

  6. By Jeanne #6, Posted: 11/1/2009

    I bought a HHR in August 09 cash for clunkers ,good deal until dealer called a month later and said clunker did not qualify ,by then I had given my Jimmy to son and was really enjoying my ride have 4500 miles on it ,Hate the name HHR so it is my ride ,I own a resale shop and haul a lot of furniture and goodies from auction ,HHR is not as roomy as my Jimmy ,can not fit a dresser in it ,but smaller furniture and a few chairs fit , I have no use for back seats so I can haul enough stuff ,We have had a lot of rain and I have driven thru some puddles and noticed my floor is wet ,back seat area ,not a good sign ,Today have windows open to dry it out ,I also use the tail gate door all the time and notice it doesn't close well ,the instrument panel keeps telling me gate ajar ,do I have to slam it ,I drive 45 minutes each day on interstate ,get good gas milage ,nice sound system ,no problems for interstate driving ,my big dog rides to store with me I placed a blanket in cargo area so he would not slide all over on plastic,I do have the blind spots but I have never trusted mirrors so no problem looking for traffic,just started looking at peoples reviews since inside got wet ,will keep up with it though

  7. By Jeanne #7, Posted: 11/1/2009

    Found out why my ride was getting wet inside ,the drivers door is not lined up with frame which is gonna mess up the pin stripes when we take it to dealer it is about a quarter inch higher than frame

  8. By john #8, Posted: 11/1/2009

    I bought a '09 in July and got a great deal from Chevy. I use the GM card and had 3400 points to use for the purchase along with the dealer and GM rebate. Great deal.
    I got the 5 speed which is a must with this funky wagon. This car reminds me of my brother's '57 chevy Nomad wagon from many years ago. This is a future classic. I wish a 6 speed was available.
    Its got great power (155 hp) for the base version. Whemn this is off warranty, I will add a chip and some tweaking that will bump this car to 250 hp.

  9. By Joe #9, Posted: 11/3/2009

    I bought an HHR new in August 2006. Now have 120,000 miles on it. Besides regular oil changes I just replaced the radiator (leaking seal)and brakes. Will buy new turn signal bulb tomorrow. Very happy so far.

  10. By Jeanne #10, Posted: 11/18/2009

    my ride is not leaking no more at door ,got the door lined up and dealer put new weather stripping on door since it wasn't lined up ,we can still see it is not quite right they lightly tapped corner down to even it out and replaced pin stripes .
    NOW another small but important thing is wrong ,me and friend were out shopping and her seatbelt worked when we left house and after shopping it did not work ,took it to dealership and they could not loosen it up so a new one has been ordered
    These are small things but with only 5000 miles ,I hope there will be no more problems ,dealership may hide when they see me coming in future

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